In southern Dallas, the Girl Scouts inaugurated the Dallas County Girl Scout Dream Lab, a facility designed to inspire STEM curiosity among young women. The event, attended by approximately 300 participants, showcased various activities including a laser-cutting demonstration where Braiya Thompson, a seven-year-old Girl Scout, watched in awe as her name was engraved on a charm.
The DreamLab occupies a repurposed 10,000-square-foot facility that features climbing walls, a podcasting studio, a kitchen, and outdoor spaces. This initiative aims to encourage interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among girls, particularly in underserved communities. Jennifer Bartkowski, Chief Executive Officer of the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas, stated, “It’s a space built for girls by girls. We are thrilled to be able to offer this to the girls of southern Dallas.”
The launch of the DreamLab comes at a crucial time for the Girl Scouts, as membership dropped significantly during the pandemic. According to the Associated Press, youth membership fell from approximately 1.4 million in 2019-2020 to just over 1 million in 2021. Bartkowski noted this decline highlighted a need for the organization to reimagine its approach, focusing on inclusivity and accessibility for families who may not have been aware of the opportunities available.
“Families wanted what Girl Scouts had to offer, but they didn’t know us, or they didn’t have access to us. We needed to show up differently,” she explained. The DreamLab is part of a broader strategy to engage girls in regions where opportunities for STEM education are lacking. Bartkowski emphasized that single-gender spaces like the DreamLab are vital for girls to build confidence and explore their interests.
Former U.S. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson played a pivotal role in securing federal funding for the DreamLab before her passing in 2023. This facility marks the second and largest DreamLab in Texas, following an initial location in Flower Mound. Bartkowski hopes to expand the organization’s reach, aiming to introduce thousands more girls to the Girl Scouts by 2030.
On the opening day, attendees engaged in various activities. Adventurous participants attempted the rotating rock climbing wall, while others explored circuits and batteries. A notable highlight was the appearance of a Texas tortoise named Mystery, brought in by Eric Brittingham, president of Wildlife On the Move. He humorously referred to the tortoise as “the ultimate party pooper,” delighting the young audience.
In a dedicated podcasting studio, Aanya Lakhani, 15, prepared to interview Krys Boyd, the host of KERA-FM’s talk show Think. “We are not your grandparents’ Girl Scouts,” Bartkowski remarked. “We’re about STEM. We’re about confidence. We’re about public speaking.”
The Dallas Morning News, through its Education Lab, aims to deepen coverage of urgent educational issues in North Texas. Funded by various community organizations, this initiative retains full editorial control over its journalism, ensuring that the stories reflect the needs and interests of the community.
As the DreamLab opens its doors, it represents not only a physical space but a commitment to fostering a supportive environment where young girls can thrive in STEM and beyond. The focus on inclusivity and empowerment promises to leave a lasting impact on future generations.
